What is the impact of leftover detergent on sanitizer effectiveness?

Leftover detergent can significantly reduce the effectiveness of a sanitizer. This occurs because detergent residues can create a barrier on surfaces, preventing the sanitizer from properly contacting and eliminating pathogens. Detergents are designed to break down and remove grease and dirt, which can interfere with the chemical action of sanitizers. When detergent residues remain on surfaces, they can bind to the sanitizer, preventing it from working as intended. Therefore, ensuring surfaces are thoroughly rinsed and free from any detergent before applying sanitizer is crucial for achieving the desired microbial reduction and maintaining food safety standards.